Professor Matthew Ayorinde from FUTA wins the 2024 NAS Gold Medal for his groundbreaking research in water treatment, environmental chemistry, and material science. His work on developing cost-effective solutions for wastewater decontamination has made significant contributions to both national and global scientific knowledge.
Professor Matthew Ayorinde, a distinguished academic from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has been awarded the prestigious 2024 NAS Gold Medal by the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS). The announcement was made in a statement released by the NAS Science Prize Committee on November 25, 2024.
The NAS Gold Medal, established in 2016, is awarded annually to Nigerian scientists who have made significant contributions in fields with national and global relevance. The prize alternates between the Life and Physical Sciences each year, with this year’s award recognizing excellence in the Physical Sciences.
Professor Ayorinde, a leading researcher in the fields of material science, environmental chemistry, and water treatment, was honored for his innovative work on wastewater remediation. His research focuses on using cost-effective, green materials for water purification, particularly in the decontamination of wastewater polluted with organic dyes and nitrates.
Notably, Professor Ayorinde and his team developed biochars from biomass, such as elephant grass, to remove harmful nitrate ions from contaminated water, offering an environmentally friendly solution to a critical global challenge. His work has not only contributed valuable insights into water treatment but also provided actionable knowledge for industries and stakeholders involved in water quality management.
The award will be formally presented to Professor Ayorinde on January 22, 2025, during the NAS Annual Scientific Conference in Abuja.
